BAND OF HORSES
Things Are Great BMG
Bridwell gets back in the saddle and heads towards the light
8/10
After three vital LPs, climaxing with 2010’s panoramic Infinite Arms, Ben Bridwell found himself in a rut, his helium tenor adrift over half-hearted songs and rehashed arrangements. So in 2017 he reshuffled the lineup, grabbed the reins and set off in search of his elusive muse. From the electrifying first few minutes of Things Are Great, it’s evident that Bridwell is revitalised; his voice takes on newfound urgency amid the silvery guitars and buoyant rhythms of “Warning Signs” and “Crutch”. He then relives domestic disputes and panic attacks on “In Need Of Repair” and “Aftermath”, finding strength in vulnerability. The LP becomes increasingly ornate as it progresses, as orchestral flourishes and multitracked chorales signify the journey from darkness to light.